Who is Iran's New Supreme Leader?

Who is Iran's New Supreme Leader?

From CNA Talks: A National Security Podcast by CNA

March 18, 2026 · 17 min · Episode 206

About this episode

This episode explores the background, education, and ideology of Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei.

Iran has a new Supreme Leader for the first time in almost 37 years, Mojtaba Khamenei. This episode explores his background, education, and ideology. Guest Biographies Michael Connell is an expert in Persian-Gulf security-related issues, the armed forces of Iran, U.S.-GCC security cooperation, and adversary cyber policy and strategy. He has served as CNA's Field Analyst to Naval Forces Central Command. Further Reading CNA Talks: Iran's Stability in the Aftermath of the Grand Bazaar Protests CNA Report: The Evolving Russia-Iran Relationship

People in this episode

Guest: Michael Connell

Topics covered

  • Iran
  • Supreme Leader
  • Mojtaba Khamenei
  • Persian-Gulf security
  • U.S.-GCC security cooperation
  • adversary cyber policy

Keywords

  • Iran
  • Supreme Leader
  • Mojtaba Khamenei
  • Michael Connell
  • Persian-Gulf security
  • U.S.-GCC security cooperation
  • cyber policy

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: CNA, Naval Forces Central Command

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